The announcement that AMC has renewed “The Walking Dead” is a mixed bag: The show is returning for Season 4 (no surprise given the ratings and fan response to the series), but Glen Mazzara is out as showrunner.

AMC also jointly announces with Glen Mazzara today that for future seasons, the two parties have mutually decided to part ways. Glen guided the series creatively for Seasons 2 and 3. AMC is grateful for his hard work. We are both proud of our shared success.

Both parties acknowledge that there is a difference of opinion about where the show should go moving forward and conclude that it is best to part ways. This decision is amicable, and Glen will remain on for post-production on Season 3B as showrunner and executive producer.

Individual statement from Glen Mazzara: My time as showrunner on “The Walking Dead” has been an amazing experience, but after I finish Season 3, it’s time to move on. I have told the stories I wanted to tell and connected with our fans on a level that I never imagined. It doesn’t get much better than that. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey.

And a statement from producer Gale Anne Hurd: I am appreciative and grateful to Glen for his hard work on “The Walking Dead.” I am supportive of AMC and Glen’s decision and know that the series is in great hands with one of the most talented and dedicated casts and crews in the business. I look forward to the show’s continued success.